"Image" is the way other people see us. It influences whether people will agree to our requests, hire us, and pay us the salary we want.

Image consulting is a booming industry thanks in part to the popularity of television shows such as What Not to Wear, Extreme Makeover, and Queer Eye for the Straight Guy.

As an image consultant, we give people advice that will help them achieve what they want - whether it is to get a new job, to make a good impression, or simply to feel good about themselves. To help people look better we may choose to offer services such as:

* Image Analysis or Makeover Consulting (giving someone feedback on the overall image they are projecting and helping them develop a new image)

* Fashion Styling or Wardrobe Consulting (reviewing someone's current wardrobe to determine what should be discarded or purchased, coordinating outfits, and closet organizing)

* Makeup Analysis (you can also consult on other specific aspects of physical appearance such as: Colors, Skin Care, Hairstyle, etc.)

However, image is more than physical appearance. In addition to how someone looks, people also form impressions based on how that person talks and behaves. Therefore, as an image consultant, we may also consult with clients about:

* Vocal Communications (such as voice, grammar, and vocabulary)

* Non-verbal communications (such as handshakes, posture, and eye contact)

* Etiquette (business etiquette, social graces, dining)

In addition to consulting with clients, we have developed a network of strategic partners to refer clients to, such as hair stylists, makeup artists, dieticians, dentists, personal trainers, plastic surgeons, and voice coaches.

As an image consultant I try to assist anyone who wants image consulting services, or choose to specialize in working with particular types of clients, such as:

* Women who want a new look
* Job-seekers
* Corporate executives
* Beauty pageant contestants
* Lawyers and their clients
* Cancer survivors
* Television personalities
* Spouses of recently promoted executives
* Politicians
* Singles seeking a partner

While many individuals hire image consultants, I also have been hired by corporate clients. For example, a company might need help with a new supervisors to communicate effectively with employees, or to coach a senior executive to make a good impression during television interviews.